AutoTrader.com Offers Showcase App to Windows 8 Early Adopters

The app is available for free download to Windows 8 Release Preview users

Shoppers can use the app to find car news, reviews and buying advice

An upcoming app from AutoTrader.com will draw early Windows 8 users to a new section of the popular automotive website. AutoTrader.com is traditionally known for its new- and used-car listings, but this new app is designed to expose Windows 8 Release Preview users to the site's expanding editorial content, which includes automotive news, reviews, videos and shopping advice. It will be the first automotive-themed app for Microsoft's new operating system.

Named the News and Reviews Showcase, it will be AutoTrader.com's first app that focuses on the site's expert articles, vehicle reviews, photo galleries, videos and "top" lists that give buying advice and information about car deals. It's different from the site's mobile app for iPhone and Android, which allows car shoppers to search new and used vehicle inventory, scan VINs to find similar vehicles nearby and look for local dealerships.

According to AutoTrader.com, the app is available to users who sign up for Windows 8 Release Preview, which provides a teaser of Microsoft's next Windows operating system. Available for free download on Microsoft's website, the operating system is expected to launch in final form this October with a heavy focus on apps, similar to devices from competing software giant Apple.

"We were thrilled to work with Microsoft on an inspirational app for the Release Preview of Windows 8," said Steve Greenfield, AutoTrader.com's vice-president of product management. "With a keen focus on innovation, we capitalized on the opportunity to create a unique and interactive experience that highlights our expert editorial coverage."

AutoTrader.com says the News and Reviews Showcase app features seven sections devoted to its original editorial content. Latest provides users with the newest articles and videos; Green examines environmental topics and provides tips to save fuel. Cutting-edge in-car gadgets are covered in the Technology section, while the Celebrity Cars For Sale area showcases vehicles available on AutoTrader.com that are or were previously owned by celebrities. Other sections include Reviews, News and Info and Videos, each of which provides up-to-date information about the newest models.

Car shoppers interested in the app can download it now through Windows 8 Release Preview, which made its debut on May 31.

What it means to you: AutoTrader.com's new app proves the website is about more than just helping shoppers find the right car.

Jeffrey Archer
is fortunate to have turned a passion for cars into a career. His wide-ranging automotive experience includes work for automakers and dealers in addition to covering the news. When not writing, he spends his time searching for unique cars on AutoTrader.com.